Canada's Carbon Pricing Overhaul: Elimination of Fuel Charge and Policy Shifts
The Government of Canada's federal carbon pricing system, established under the GGPPA, consists of a fuel charge and an Output-Based Pricing System (OBPS) for large industrial emitters. The fuel charge, applied in certain provinces and territories, was set to rise annually but will be effectively eliminated on April 1, 2025, through amendments in SOR/2025-107, which set fuel charge rates to zero. As a result, fuel charge filing requirements will end, exemption certificates will no longer apply, and the Canada carbon rebate for individuals and small businesses will be terminated. The OBPS will continue in its current jurisdictions, ensuring industrial carbon pricing remains in place. Amendments in SOR/2025-108 adjust reporting obligations for covered facilities under the OBPS. Additionally, British Columbia has announced plans to repeal its provincial carbon tax while maintaining a pricing system for large emitters.
2025 CAR Conference: Key Trends Shaping the Future of Automotive Remarketing
The 2025 Conference of Automotive Remarketing highlighted key industry trends, including the influx of off-lease EVs, affordability challenges, and evolving remarketing strategies. Used EVs will surge in the market, with battery health becoming the primary resale factor, while affordability concerns persist due to rising interest rates and high monthly payments. Despite falling used car prices, they remain historically high due to supply constraints. EV adoption is slowing, with concerns over charging infrastructure and battery degradation. Potential tariffs on imported vehicles could further disrupt pricing, while rental fleets struggle with limited supply. The industry must adapt, prioritizing battery diagnostics for EV remarketing and adjusting to shifting economic conditions.
Gas Prices Drop for Fourth Consecutive Week, Potentially Falling Below $3
Gas prices continue to decline into March, with the national average dropping for the fourth consecutive week to $3.05 per gallon, down 39 cents from last year, according to the EIA. Analysts suggest prices may dip below $3 per gallon, though concerns about economic slowdown loom, as lower gasoline demand often signals broader economic challenges. While most regions saw price declines, the East Coast and Rocky Mountains remained stable, with the Gulf Coast experiencing the largest drop. The cheapest gas can be found in Mississippi at $2.63 per gallon, followed by Oklahoma at $2.66. Currently, 31 states have an average price below $2.99, marking an increase from last week.